Can I Have My Dad’s Hairline But Different Balding Pattern?

Hello Doctor,

I am a male in my late 20’s and had a question regarding the relation between your hairline and whether or not you will go bald like your father. Looking at past photos of my father when he was in his early 20’s I have his hairline rather than my mother’s. However, I seem to have more hair (pretty full head with just a little loss around temple area) than my father did when he was in his late 20’s. My father is now in his late 60’s and has just a little on top (basically bald). My mom is in her late 50’s and has very thick full head hair.

Is it possible to inherit the same hairline as your father but not go bald like him?

Thanks for your help.

Hair loss is genetic, but it does not always follow your father’s pattern either in the hairline or elsewhere on your scalp. It is just that in general your father’s hairline/recession is a good reference point, as may be your grandfather on both sides of the family and possibly your uncles as well. But as you are finding out, it is not always the case. Anything is possible.

If you’re fine with your current hair situation, keep your fingers crossed that it doesn’t progress… or talk to a physician about medication to slow it down.